Image: Foremost Media.

Recently-crowned Pirelli MX Nationals MXD champion Regan Duffy will replace Mitch Evans (Team Honda 114 Motorsports) on Team Australia for the 2019 Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations (MXoN) at Assen in the Netherlands this month.

Duffy, just 17 years of age, will pilot a Raceline KTM Thor 450 SX-F in the Open category, fulfilling the spot vacated by Evans, who’s been forced out of event with ‘ongoing medical concerns’.

Despite his youth, the Western Australian has adequate experience aboard the 450, beating CDR Yamaha Monster Energy duo Kirk Gibbs and Luke Clout, plus fellow MXoN team member Kyle Webster (Penrite Pirelli CRF Honda Racing), at this year’s Manjimup 15,000, while he’s won 13 from 14 motos in the MX1 category of the WA state-based championship.

Duffy boasts an exceptional skillset in the sand, which will prove beneficial in the man-made Assen sandpit circuit, while the chance to represent Australia at the prestigious race marks a greater opportunity for the Raceline rider, as a strong showing will strengthen his chances of earning a desired international ride in the future.

“It’s massive for and it’s always been a dream of mine,” Duffy explained to MotoOnline.com.au. “I’ve always watched the Des Nations and been in awe of all the countries coming together to do battle. To go over there and race the best guys in the world at 17 is just next level.

“I do all my training on the 450 – I literally ride my 450 all the time. I don’t really have any expectations – I’m going to give 100 percent and do the best that I can, but I don’t really know where I’ll be at. I think if I put in a good result, people will take notice of me – it’s a big event for me – it’s not just Des Nations, it’s my future.”

Duffy joins triple Australian champion Dean Ferris (Raceline Recover8 KTM) and Webster for the 28-29 September event. Dual Australian MX2 champion, Wilson Todd (DPH Motorsport Husqvarna), withdrew his MXoN application last month, making himself unavailable for selection. The Queenslander has locked in an MX2 World Championship deal for next year.